If you want to see true democracy, simply stand in any cross road in India. Even better, stand in a cross road in Hyderabad. Vehicles move democratically divergent directions, un-incumbered by traffic rules. And the traffic polices' are the true upholders of democracy, following the credo of by the people, for the poeple, of the people. Never mind the honking, snarling, homicidal traffic.
Even the drivers are very democratic. There is no discrimination, whether you drive a mercedes or a maruti 800- you will get bumped either way. As a rule you drive as you like, its entirely upto the other person to avoid collision. The only teeny problem? The other guy is thinking the same. With interesting results.
There is of course the small power struggles. Two wheelers crib about the obvious muscle power of the cars. Cars feel they get side swiped (literally) by the sneaky two wheelers. From a bird eye view, it looks like a well-knit shawl....no holes or gaps :)
As a matter of fact, the traffic cops are better then most politician. They are absolutely clueless about their job...but they don't shout and try and look threatening either. Apart from the fact that Hyderabadis are absolutely fearless when it comes to traffic cops, no one would probably hear them over the honking anyway.
Having stayed away from the driving seat for a decade, I am entertaining the thought of going back in the saddle or the seat so to say. If only people are so kind enough not to hit me or mind if I hit them, I will get on with my driving. Touchwood?
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